We’re thrilled to celebrate the impact of the 2025 veski Bionics Institute Girls in STEM Mentoring Program!

This year, more than 65 secondary school girls took part in the program, connecting with inspiring women across STEM and opening up new possibilities for their future pathways. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and growing confidence were on full display at our recent Celebration Event.

A special thank you to our keynote speaker, Associate Professor Jessica Borger, Director of Education at Monash University’s School of Translational Medicine, whose message deeply resonated with participants:

“Be curious, be confident, and don’t wait for permission — science needs diversity in ideas, including yours.”

Jessica encouraged students to embrace their passions and recognise the value they bring to STEMM fields:

• When you start seeing STEMM in the things you love, confidence grows — because science becomes part of who you are.
  
• Shine brightly, but remember you shine even brighter with the support of others.
  
• Stay curious, keep showing up, hold onto your spark, lift others as you go, and take time to consider each new opportunity.
  

Across the Program, students in Years 9–11 explored STEM careers, met mentors, and participated in lab and workplace visits, culminating in presentations to their peers. Their projects spanned a remarkable range of topics — from lipid biomarkers and cardiovascular health to fire-resistant materials, preeclampsia, PFAS (“forever chemicals”), CdSe quantum dots, metal additive manufacturing, glaucoma, and diagnostic approaches for complex pneumonia, just to name a few!

Thank you to NAB for generously hosting our Celebration Event, and to every mentor, student, school, and supporter who contributed to the Program’s success.

Together, we’re building a future where the next generation of women in STEM feel confident, connected, and ready to make their mark.